How to Report Welfare Fraud in South Carolina
In South Carolina, over 100,000 households participate in the federal Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP), which assists low-income individuals and families. Welfare benefits are administered through the South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS). To report people who receive welfare benefits through fraudulent actions, a violation of state and federal law, contact DSS.
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Instructions
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Collect as much information about the welfare fraud as possible, including who is participating in the fraud, what amount of monetary benefits the person has received, and who witnessed the person receiving the benefits. Make a copy of the documentation before submitting your report to the DSS.
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Find and contact your county DSS office through the DSS website. Submit your fraud report to the county office by mail, phone or email.
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Fill out the "Report Financial Fraud" online submission. Click the "Report Financial Fraud" link on the DSS website under "Hotlines." Include all requested information. Provide as many details about the fraudulent activity as possible. You can submit the fraud report anonymously if desired.
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Call the Division of Investigation for the DSS at 803-898-7673. Speak with a staff person who handles welfare fraud cases and give him or her the information you've obtained. If necessary, mail a copy of your supporting documentation to:
Special Agent in Charge
Division of Investigation
SC Department of Social Services
P.O. Box Box 1520
Columbia, SC 29202-1520
803-898-7673
dss.sc.gov
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Tips & Warnings
In South Carolina, welfare fraud cases involving $1500 or less are not prosecuted. In these instances, a court will dock a client's welfare benefits for any overpayments.
Although anonymous fraud reports are accepted, your confidentiality is not guaranteed.
Submitting an anonymous fraud report may hinder the investigation if DSS can't contact you for additional information.
You may be called to testify if the fraud claim results in a trial.
References
Resources
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